You've acquired a meeting...Congratulations! You're relevant enough for a meeting. You're likely either a...campaign contributorconstituent or employerYour influence in Congress is determined by your relevance.The Secret: We can't control Congress' calendar, but we can control their conversation by remaining relevant*. with a 25 year old?Only 1/3 of House staff have more than 3 years experience. (Sunlight Foundation, 2010)

Age is not an indicator of influence.

Relevance:

YOU are the expert in the room. and it's time to talk business.1. Professional relevance. Make your case for relevance. Why do you matter? Why does community behavioral health matter?My practice serves XXX people annually.

What is your community (i.e. legislative district) impact? Do you employ people?

What is at risk when we ignore community behavioral health?The hard work is done. Your 5 asks are timely and relevant. do this. not that.DO...Be early, polite, respectful, + professional.Be aware of any connections to the legislator.Find a way to say "thanks" at the start of the meeting.Leave a business card.Take a picture.DON'T...Go in looking for a debate. You won't find it. Check your phone.Give a gift.Forget to provide them with handouts!

You MUST follow up.Influence TrifectaRelevantDon't want to work with you.Can be ignored.Winning!Irrelevant.PersistentPoliteAdvocate's Toolkit: Perfecting the VoicemailINTRO.

TOPIC.

CONNECTION.

ASK.

CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION.Answer questionsSay thanksRequest clarification or decisionHi [staffer]. This is [name] from [city]. I'm calling today about [bill number or relevant language].[Your story/relevance to the ask in 10 sec or less.]I'm calling to check up on a request for Rep./Sen. [last name] to X.I'd love to discuss this further. [Contact info]. Thank you! I appreciate your time.Where we go from here...Arriving early, with a business card and a smile.Assuming the position of a diplomat.Beginning our meeting with praise and thanks.Providing issue briefs and materials to legislator and staff. Proving our relevance beyond our address with what we offer, our story, and timely asks.Following up with staff at the meeting with thanks, answers, and request for decision.I WILL DO MY BEST. Laurie Markle, MAlmarkle@arthritis.org(202) 887-2921Prezi search: Laurie Markle